Tim Tszyu delivered on his promise of leaving a horror 2024 in the rearview mirror, flooring rising American Joey Spencer in Newcastle to take the first step to reigniting his boxing career.
After suffering back-to-back losses to Sebastian Fundora and Bakhram Murtazaliev, Tszyu knew this bout against Spencer was “do or die.” The 30-year-old Australian demonstrated his trademark patience in the opening rounds before coming to life and stamping his authority in a dominant third. He displayed his aggressive, yet measured style, working Spencer over with his speed and variety.
Tszyu inflicted serious pain on the 24-year-old, first with the jab, then the hook, and finally the uppercut, before the American’s dad threw in the towel late in the fourth round to bring an end to the contest, allowing Tszyu to take hold of the WBO inter-continental super welterweight title.
“There was a bit of pressure. I couldn’t do a third consecutive loss,” admitted Tszyu. “I hope I teach people that if they drop to the floor, they can always rise back to the top. The critics are always going to be there [but] I proved it to everyone in the world. I’m back, baby. I’m back!”
The win, Tszyu’s first since defending his WBO junior middleweight crown against Brian Mendoza in October 2023, keeps him perfect on Australian soil. It also extended the Tszyu family’s unbeaten run in Australia to 51-0.
Tszyu has now set his sights on another American, former unified welterweight world champion, Keith Thurman.
“Sign the contract, big boy. Sign the contract,” said Tszyu, when asked about a potential match-up against the 36-year-old. “If the fans want it, we can figure out a mega show.”
More to follow…
Source: espn.com